Allegations surface as federal indictment exposes forced labor and sex trafficking within a New Jersey church, raising concerns over religious authority and exploitation.
At a Glance
- Treva and Christine Edwards face federal charges for orchestrating forced labor and sex trafficking.
- The indictment, revealed on May 7, 2025, led to the couple’s arrest and arraignment.
- The Edwards allegedly used spiritual manipulation to exploit vulnerable church members.
- The church, “Jesus is Lord by the Holy Ghost,” became a place of control, isolating victims.
Indictment Details and Charges
Treva Edwards, claiming prophetic powers, and his wife, Christine Edwards, were indicted for sex trafficking, forced labor, and related conspiracies. The federal indictment, unsealed on May 7, 2025, includes charges of manipulating church members through threats of spiritual and physical consequences. Both were arrested and arraigned following the indictment, with serious charges carrying potentially life-altering penalties.
A central figure within his congregation, Treva Edwards allegedly controlled victims using divine authority claims, demanding unpaid labor while keeping the earnings. The indictment charges him with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and imposing labor without compensation.
Church as a Place of Manipulation
Located in Orange, New Jersey, the church “Jesus is Lord by the Holy Ghost” allegedly became a hub for manipulation and exploitation. The couple reportedly recruited individuals facing personal struggles from 2011 to 2020, coercing them into unpaid labor through contracts. Allegations claim strict rules and communication monitoring isolated victims, discouraging them from seeking help or medical treatment.
Spiritual Justifications and Control
Manipulating beliefs, Treva Edwards allegedly installed fear of spiritual retribution for disobedience. Victims faced threats of suffering, both spiritual and physical. One victim reportedly suffered physical assault and was coerced into an abortion, illustrating the severe control exerted by the Edwards.
“Treva and Christine Edwards turned a source of hope into a tool of fear by allegedly exploiting religious faith to manipulate victims and expose them to sexual violence and forced labor conditions. Seeking justice for human trafficking victims in cases like this is of utmost importance to HSI Newark. Anyone who may believe they are a victim of trafficking can be assured our investigations are victim-centered and that we will continue to relentlessly pursue justice for anyone’s freedom that has been held ransom.” – Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel.
Authorities Call for Vigilance and Justice
The U.S. Department of Justice, alongside Homeland Security Investigations, condemned the Edwards’ actions, focusing on their manipulation under a pretext of religious faith. Authorities emphasize the importance of reporting any suspicions about the defendants through the Human Trafficking Hotline, seeking justice for victims and ensuring accountability for those abusing positions of authority.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable individuals under the guise of faith or community. This Civil Rights Division is committed to holding accountable those who abuse positions of trust to manipulate and control others for personal gain. These charges reflect our unwavering focus on protecting victims and prosecuting those who commit forced labor and sex trafficking.” – Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon
The indictment represents a critical step in addressing abuses hidden under religious cloaks, holding authority figures accountable for misusing their roles to exploit individuals’ need for refuge and hope.
